Introduction
When the weather turns chilly or you simply want a meal that feels like a warm hug, Chicken Tortellini Soup is exactly what you need. This soup combines tender, juicy chicken with cheesy, comforting tortellini pasta in a rich and flavorful broth filled with fresh vegetables.
It’s the kind of dish that satisfies both your hunger and your soul. What makes this recipe so wonderful is that it is quick to prepare and packed with delicious flavors that come together effortlessly.
Whether you are cooking for your family after a long day or looking for a meal to impress your friends, this soup hits all the right notes. The blend of textures from the soft tortellini and the tender chicken paired with the hearty broth creates a beautiful balance that warms you up from the inside out.
You can easily customize it based on what you have in your pantry or your dietary needs. It is perfect for meal prep or even for freezing so you can enjoy it later.
Plus, it is nourishing and wholesome, full of protein and vegetables, making it an excellent choice for a balanced meal. This recipe is ideal for cooks of all levels and offers comfort without fuss.
Ingredients Needed
Before you get started, gather all your ingredients. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Here is a simple list along with the calorie content so you can keep track of your nutritional intake.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approximate) |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast (boneless, skinless) | 2 cups, cooked and shredded | 330 |
| Cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen) | 12 ounces | 480 |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium | 45 |
| Carrots (sliced) | 2 medium | 50 |
| Celery (sliced) | 2 stalks | 20 |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | 15 |
| Chicken broth | 6 cups | 90 |
| Diced tomatoes (canned) | 1 cup | 40 |
| Spinach (fresh) | 2 cups | 14 |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon | 5 |
| Salt | to taste | 0 |
| Black pepper | to taste | 0 |
This table gives you an idea of what goes into the soup and the approximate calorie count for each ingredient. Overall, a serving of this soup is filling but still light enough to fit into most balanced diets.
Read More: Tortellini Soup Recipe
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making Chicken Tortellini Soup is simple and straightforward. Start by cooking your chicken if it isn’t already prepared. You can boil, bake, or sauté the chicken breasts until fully cooked and then shred or chop them into bite-sized pieces. This adds great texture to your soup.
Next, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add your chopped onions, sliced carrots, and celery. These vegetables are the flavor base of your soup and cooking them until they soften will bring out their natural sweetness. This usually takes about five to seven minutes.
After the vegetables have softened, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute or so. Garlic adds a wonderful aroma and depth to the broth.
Once the aromatics are ready, pour in your chicken broth and canned diced tomatoes with their juice. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
When boiling, add your cheese tortellini directly into the pot. Fresh or frozen tortellini will cook quickly, usually between five to seven minutes. Be sure to check the package instructions if you are using store-bought tortellini for exact cooking times.
When the tortellini is tender, stir in the shredded chicken and fresh spinach leaves. The spinach will wilt quickly in the hot soup, adding color and nutrients.
Let the soup simmer for an additional two to three minutes to make sure everything is heated through and the flavors meld together beautifully.
Finally, taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt or pepper if you like. Serve the soup hot for the best experience.
Read More: Creamy Rice and Chicken Casserole Recipe
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
One of the great things about Chicken Tortellini Soup is how easy it is to make it your own. If you want a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with mushrooms or extra leafy greens and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce can bring a nice spicy kick.
You can experiment with different types of tortellini too. Meat-filled or mushroom-filled tortellini offer different flavors and textures that keep the soup interesting.
If you prefer a creamier soup, try stirring in half a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half at the very end of cooking. It will add a luscious texture and richness that feels indulgent but still balanced.
Fresh herbs such as basil or parsley can be sprinkled on top just before serving. They brighten the dish and add a fresh, vibrant flavor.
Don’t hesitate to throw in other vegetables you have on hand like zucchini or bell peppers to increase the nutritional value and flavor profile.
Nutritional Information
This soup is not only tasty but also packed with nutrition. A typical serving offers around 310 calories and is rich in protein with about 25 grams per serving.
The carbohydrates mainly come from the tortellini and vegetables, providing about 30 grams, which will give you lasting energy. The healthy fats mostly come from the olive oil used to sauté the vegetables.
You will also get fiber from the carrots, celery, and spinach, which supports digestion and overall health.
The sodium content can vary depending on the broth and how much salt you add, but it is usually around 800 milligrams per serving. This is a moderate amount, but if you are watching your sodium intake, you can use low sodium broth or reduce the added salt.
Overall, this soup is a balanced meal that delivers protein, vitamins, and minerals in every spoonful.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Tortellini Soup tastes amazing on its own but pairing it with some sides can make the meal extra special. Warm crusty bread or garlic bread is a classic companion that allows you to soak up every bit of the delicious broth.
If you want something lighter, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness and contrast to the warm soup.
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of the soup enhances the flavor and adds a nice salty note.
For drinks, a glass of white wine pairs beautifully, especially if you are serving this at a dinner gathering.
If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a slice of lemon offers a refreshing finish. You can also enjoy the soup with a side of roasted vegetables for an even more hearty meal.
Read More: The Best Hamburger Macaroni Soup for Chilly Nights
Conclusion
Chicken Tortellini Soup is a fantastic recipe that delivers comfort, nutrition, and flavor all in one bowl. It is quick to make, requires simple ingredients, and allows for plenty of creativity based on your preferences and what you have in your kitchen.
Whether you are looking to warm up on a cold day or need a wholesome meal after a busy day, this soup is an excellent choice.
Its combination of tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and fresh vegetables in a savory broth will quickly make it a favorite in your recipe collection.
The recipe is perfect for families, meal prep, or even entertaining guests because it is both delicious and versatile.
So next time you want something that feels like home cooked goodness without complicated steps, try this Chicken Tortellini Soup recipe. You will not be disappointed.